Maja is a 1982 Nauticat 38 that we are systematically improving for long-term liveaboard and ocean cruising. We prioritise safety first, then comfort, then style. Every project is documented honestly — both the successes and the costs.
This page gives an overview of the major upgrades we have already completed and the projects that are planned or in progress.
Completed Major Upgrades
New teak deck (2024–2025)
The old teak deck was worn out. In winter 2024/2025 the entire deck was replaced with new teak while the boat was in Sweden. This was one of the biggest and most expensive projects so far.
New standing rigging & Furlex (2025)
All standing rigging was renewed in 2025. The forestay furling system (Furlex) was also replaced the same year.
Hydrovane self-steering (2025)
An independent Hydrovane was installed. This gives us both reliable windvane steering and a completely separate emergency rudder.
Steering system improvements
After a hydraulic steering failure we added a bypass valve and improved the system so the emergency tiller works properly.
Engine
Maja is powered by a Volvo Penta D2-75 diesel engine, installed in 2017. The originalk engine was a Ford Lehman.
Key specifications:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Power (crankshaft) | 55 kW / 75 hp |
| Power (propeller shaft) | approx. 53 kW / 72 hp |
| Rated speed | 2,700 – 3,000 rpm |
| Number of cylinders | 4 (in-line) |
| Displacement | 2.2 litres (134 cu in) |
| Bore × Stroke | 84 × 100 mm |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged with charge-air cooling |
| Compression ratio | 23.3 : 1 |
| Maximum torque | approx. 212 Nm at 1,800 rpm |
| Dry weight (with gearbox) | approx. 258–264 kg |
| Standard alternator | 115 A |
| Cooling | Freshwater cooling (heat exchanger) |
| Emission compliance | EU RCD, US EPA Tier 3, BSO |
Practical notes for a Nauticat 38
- The D2-75 is a good match for the displacement and hull form of the Nauticat 38.
- It has strong low- and mid-range torque, which is useful for a heavy motorsailer.
- The 115 A alternator is a useful feature for charging house batteries while motoring.
- Fuel consumption at typical cruising revs is moderate for the power delivered.
The engine currently has around 3.000 hours (as of summer 2026).
Other completed work
- New davits
- Improved electrical charging (Victron Argo FET)
- Various safety and comfort upgrades
Current & Planned Projects
These are the next priorities (in roughly the order we expect to tackle them):
- Cutter stay with self-tacking staysail Better heavy-weather sail plan and easier single-handed sailing.
- New windows in the aft cabin The six windows in the aft cabin need replacement.
- Complete electrical upgrade + lithium batteries New house bank, better monitoring, more solar capacity and a cleaner system overall.
- Starlink Reliable internet for longer periods away from marinas.
- Possible electric outboard for the dinghy
- Check and fix any remaining diesel leaks in the engine room
We will document each of these projects on the YouTube channel as they happen.
Our Approach to Upgrades
We do not upgrade for the sake of upgrading. Every project must answer three questions:
- Does it make the boat safer?
- Does it make living aboard more practical or comfortable?
- Is the cost reasonable relative to the benefit?
We prefer solid, repairable solutions over the newest or most complicated technology.
Full Overview Video
The best single video that shows the current state of the boat after the recent upgrades is:
This video covers the deck, rig, Hydrovane, interior and many of the systems in one place.